Interactive Editorials and Other Digital Oddities

In this talk, the intersection of interactivity and design in digital journalism will be explored. Nicholas will begin with an explanation of his early influences and how he first became interested in the interactive web. Nicholas's previous roles at Nautilus, where he started an independent digital-first science magazine and expanded into printed quarterly issues, will be discussed.

The importance of interactivity in engaging audiences on the web will be highlighted, with examples like "Snow Fall" by The New York Times demonstrating successful and pioneering approaches. These works will be shown to have set a course not only for The New York Times internally but also for the industry more broadly.

Techniques for creating compelling interactive experiences, including the use of multimedia elements such as video, audio, and animation, will be covered. Nicholas will also delve into how adaptive and responsive design principles ensure these experiences work seamlessly across devices.

Key design principles such as visual hierarchy, typography, color choices, and the effective use of negative space for balance and pacing will be touched upon. The strategic use of animation and careful consideration of alternative structures and formats will also be discussed.

To illustrate these concepts, Nicholas will present case studies from his own work and recommend other significant resources and influences.